Article: Sequelae of an Evidence-based Approach to Management for Access to Care in the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Peter Kaboli, Isomi Miake-Lye, Christopher Ruser, Elizabeth Yano, Greg Orshansky, Lisa Rubenstein, Idamay Curtis, Susan Kirsh, Susanne Hempel
Journal: Med Care. 2019 Oct;57 Suppl 10 Suppl 3:S213-S220
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Access to health care is a critical concept in the design, delivery, and evaluation of high quality care. Meaningful evaluation of access requires research evidence and the integration of perspectives of patients, providers, and administrators.
OBJECTIVE: Because of high-profile access challenges, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) invested in research and implemented initiatives to address access management. We describe a 2-year evidence-based approach to improving access in primary care.
METHODS: The approach included an Evidence Synthesis Program (ESP) report, a 22-site in-person qualitative evaluation of VA initiatives, and in-person and online stakeholder panel meetings facilitated by the RAND corporation. Subsequent work products were disseminated in a targeted strategy to increase impact on policy and practice.
RESULTS: The ESP report summarized existing research evidence in primary care management and an evaluation of ongoing initiatives provided organizational data and novel metrics. The stakeholder panel served as a source of insights and information, as well as a knowledge dissemination vector. Work products included the ESP report, a RAND report, peer-reviewed manuscripts, presentations at key conferences, and training materials for VA Group Practice Managers. Resulting policy and practice implications are discussed.
CONCLUSIONS: The commissioning of an evidence report was the beginning of a cascade of work including exploration of unanswered questions, novel research and measurement discoveries, and policy changes and innovation. These results demonstrate what can be achieved in a learning health care system that employs evidence and expertise to address complex issues such as access management.
Link to journal online:
https://insights.ovid.com/crossref?an=00005650-201910001-00005